For many Filipino moms, cooking goes beyond just putting food on the table—it’s an act of love. However, even the most beloved dishes can lose their appeal, leading to what’s called “sawa,” a Filipino term for the feeling of getting tired or bored with the same meals.

The Struggle with ‘Sawa’

We spoke with several Pinoy moms from online communities, and the consensus is clear: busy schedules and not knowing what to cook can make addressing “sawa” extra challenging.

For instance, many shared that while egg-based dishes like omelettes and scrambled eggs are convenient breakfast options, their kids eventually grow tired of them. “Dati, every day, three times a day. Ngayon, napipilitan na ubusin,” one mother revealed.

This issue isn’t limited to breakfast. Some mothers share their children ask what other dishes they know how to cook. “Di ko na po sila pinapakain kapag ramdam ko na yung sawa,” another mom quipped. Kids also request canned goods instead of homemade dishes for lunch and dinner when they experience “sawa.”

Mothers recognize the need for variety but admit that it’s hard to keep meals exciting due to time constraints and a lack of new ideas. “Ako na ang nagsasawa minsan sa luto ko,” admitted one mother.

Impact on Kids

“Sawa” can lead to deeper issues, too. According to Jericho Medel, Educator and Chairperson, the Developmental Psychology Division, Psychological Association of the Philippines, having monotonous meals may affect the motivation of children during mealtime. Dietary habits that develop at an early age could be maintained in later life; not addressing the issue of meal monotony can encourage other behaviors, such as refusing to finish a meal and having difficulty exploring new and even familiar food items. 

“These concerns lead to parental pressure to meet the nutritional needs of their children. However, we may take into account that every child has a unique response to parental pressure during mealtime, especially in their regulatory and appetitive tendencies,” Medel said. 

Hence, there is a need for mothers to keep their kids excited for mealtimes. In a Facebook post, the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute said that kids should eat a variety of foods every day to get the nutrients needed by the body. However, moms know that’s easier said than done. 

Breaking the Cycle

What should a busy mom do? Many Filipinos online suggest adding an ingredient that can bring excitement to everyday dishes. A couple of Pinoy mothers provide a simple yet effective answer: cheese.

“Add cheese mga mommy para hindi nakakasawa,” suggested one online mom.

Cheese isn’t just a tasty addition to any dish; it’s a flavor powerhouse that can elevate meals and fight off food fatigue. An article published in the BBC Science Focus notes that the flavor profile of cheese makes it incredibly satisfying, while its savory taste can add depth to any meal. This creates a rich and irresistible taste that enhances any Pinoy dish.

Eden Cheese, a beloved brand among Filipino families, understands the challenge of “sawa.”  Its creamy and malinamnam goodness is here to help moms rediscover the joy in mealtimes. 

Celebrity chefs such as Chef Rosebud Benitez and Chef RV Manabat have explored how cheese can turn dull mealtimes and into exciting food items not just with flavor but also with creative dish presentations that the whole family will appreciate. 

“Ang mga bata, sawa na kapag noodles or eggs lang. Kaya we added Eden Cheese para mas masaya,” Chef RV said. 

Offering her exciting and kid-friendly take on the tuna turnover (with cheese, of course), Chef Rosebud wrote: “With Eden Cheese, mas madaling gawin yan! Ang mga simpleng dishes, mas nagiging masarap dahil sa creamy & malinamnam goodness ng Eden because it’s made with milk and real cheese.”

Looking for ways to create more exciting meals? Visit www.twistandmake.com/eden for easy recipes and tips to keep your family’s meals deliciously “sawa”-free with Eden Cheese!